Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Quick and Easy: With minimal preparation and cooking time, you can assemble these appetizers in under 30 minutes.
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Healthy and Low-Carb: Packed with protein from shrimp and healthy fats from avocado, all atop low-calorie cucumber slices, making it a guilt-free indulgence.
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Versatile: Ideal for parties, picnics, or a simple appetizer before dinner.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 teaspoon paprika
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1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
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1/2 teaspoon salt
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1/4 teaspoon black pepper
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, finely chopped
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1 large avocado
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1 tablespoon lime juice
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1/4 teaspoon salt
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1 English cucumber, sliced into rounds
Directions
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Prepare the Shrimp: In a bowl, combine shrimp with olive oil, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, black pepper, minced garlic, and chopped cilantro. Toss to coat evenly.
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Cook the Shrimp: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned shrimp in a single layer and cook for about 2 minutes per side, until opaque and cooked through. Remove from heat and set aside.
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Make the Avocado Spread: In a small bowl, mash the avocado until smooth. Stir in lime juice and salt until well combined.
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Assemble the Bites: Place cucumber slices on a serving platter. Spread a small amount of the avocado mixture on each slice, then top with a cooked shrimp.
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Serve: Garnish with additional cilantro if desired and serve immediately.
Servings and Timing
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Servings: This recipe yields approximately 20-22 bites.
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Preparation Time: 15 minutes
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Cooking Time: 5 minutes
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Total Time: 20 minutes
Variations
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Spicy Kick: Add a dash of hot sauce to the avocado spread for an extra spicy flavor.
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Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like dill or parsley into the avocado spread for a different taste profile.
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Alternative Proteins: Substitute shrimp with smoked salmon or grilled chicken slices for variety.
Storage/Reheating
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Storage: These bites are best enjoyed fresh. However, you can prepare the components separately—store cooked shrimp and avocado spread in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Assemble just before serving.
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Reheating: If needed, gently reheat the shrimp in a skillet over low heat until warmed through.
FAQs
Can I use pre-cooked shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, pre-cooked shrimp can be used. Simply season them as desired and assemble as directed.
How can I prevent the avocado from browning?
Mixing the avocado with lime juice helps slow down the browning process.
Are these bites suitable for a keto diet?
Yes, they are low in carbs and fit well into a keto diet plan.
Can I prepare these ahead of time?
It’s best to assemble them just before serving to maintain freshness and texture.
What other toppings can I add?
Consider adding a sprinkle of sesame seeds or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for extra flavor.
Is there a substitute for cilantro?
Fresh parsley or basil can be used as alternatives to cilantro.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Substitute shrimp with grilled tofu or roasted chickpeas for a vegan version.
What type of cucumber works best?
English cucumbers are ideal due to their thin skin and fewer seeds.
How thin should I slice the cucumber?
Aim for about 1/4-inch thick slices to provide a sturdy base.
Can I add cheese to this appetizer?
A small piece of feta or goat cheese can be added for extra richness.
Conclusion
Shrimp Cucumber Avocado Bites are a delightful and healthy appetizer that combines fresh flavors and appealing textures. Quick to prepare and versatile, they are sure to be a hit at your next gathering.
Print
Shrimp Cucumber Avocado Bites
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 20-22 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Delight your guests with these fresh and flavorful Shrimp Cucumber Avocado Bites! Crisp cucumber slices topped with creamy avocado and seasoned shrimp make for a light, elegant appetizer that’s both nutritious and delicious. Perfect for parties, picnics, or a quick snack!
Ingredients
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For the Shrimp:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, finely chopped
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For the Avocado Spread:
- 1 large avocado
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- ¼ teaspoon salt
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For Assembly:
- 1 English cucumber, sliced into rounds
Instructions
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Prepare the Shrimp:
- In a bowl, toss shrimp with olive oil, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, black pepper, garlic, and cilantro until evenly coated.
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Cook the Shrimp:
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook shrimp for about 2 minutes per side, until opaque and fully cooked. Remove from heat and set aside.
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Make the Avocado Spread:
- Mash avocado in a bowl until smooth.
- Stir in lime juice and salt, mixing well.
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Assemble the Bites:
- Arrange cucumber slices on a serving platter.
- Spread a small amount of avocado mixture onto each slice.
- Top with a cooked shrimp.
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Serve & Garnish:
- Optionally, sprinkle with extra cilantro or sesame seeds for garnish.
- Serve immediately.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Pan-Seared
- Cuisine: American